16 Teams Battle for a Spot in the Round of 16

The road to Champions League glory continues as 16 teams compete in the knockout play-off round to secure one of the remaining eight spots in the Round of 16. With powerhouses like Manchester City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG, and Juventus involved, fans can expect thrilling encounters.

Champions League Knockout Play-offs Explained

This newly introduced play-off round features teams that finished between ninth and 24th in the league phase. These teams will battle it out over two legs, with the winners progressing to the Round of 16 to join the top eight teams from the league phase.

While this format benefits Europe’s elite clubs, there’s still plenty of work to do to ensure their spot in the next round.

Tuesday, 11 February – First Leg Predictions

Brest vs PSG (17:45 GMT)

An all-French showdown kicks off the play-offs as Ligue 1 underdogs Brest take on PSG. Despite a shaky group stage, PSG found their rhythm late on, securing vital wins to advance. With Ousmane Dembele in top form, Luis Enrique’s side are heavy favorites to win.

Prediction: Brest 0-2 PSG

Juventus vs PSV Eindhoven (20:00 GMT)

Juventus began their Champions League journey with a 3-1 win over PSV, and they meet again in this crucial play-off clash. While Juve have struggled for consistency, their solid defense gives them a slight edge at home.

Prediction: Juventus 1-0 PSV Eindhoven

Manchester City vs Real Madrid (20:00 GMT)

The blockbuster tie of the round! A 22nd-place finish saw City drawn against European giants Real Madrid, setting up another epic battle. These teams have produced unforgettable moments in recent years, and this one promises to be no different.

Prediction: Manchester City 2-3 Real Madrid

Sporting CP vs Borussia Dortmund (20:00 GMT)

New Dortmund boss Niko Kovac had a tough start, and his team remains vulnerable defensively. Sporting, under Rui Borges, will look to capitalize on home advantage before heading to Germany for the return leg.

Prediction: Sporting CP 2-1 Borussia Dortmund

Wednesday, 12 February – First Leg Predictions

Club Brugge vs Atalanta (17:45 GMT)

Atalanta narrowly missed out on a top-eight finish but remain a dangerous side. Despite a few injury concerns, their attacking power should be enough to secure an advantage in Belgium.

Prediction: Club Brugge 1-3 Atalanta

Celtic vs Bayern Munich (20:00 GMT)

Celtic Park will be rocking as Brendan Rodgers’ side hosts Bayern Munich. The Bavarians have struggled in away matches this season, giving Celtic hope for an upset.

Prediction: Celtic 1-1 Bayern Munich

Feyenoord vs Milan (20:00 GMT)

Sergio Conceicao’s Milan is a team to watch in this tournament. Having secured Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord in January, Milan will be eager to show their strength in this tactical battle.

Prediction: Feyenoord 0-2 Milan

Monaco vs Benfica (20:00 GMT)

These sides met in the league phase, with Benfica winning a thrilling 3-2 encounter. Monaco, while talented, has been inconsistent, giving Benfica the upper hand once again.

Prediction: Monaco 1-2 Benfica

What Are Your Predictions?

Which teams do you think will make it through to the Round of 16? Share your thoughts in the comments below!